Our students study at our Jewish Experience Center (K-12 religious school) to prepare for this big day. Many of our students begin Jewish Experience Center (JEC) at KI in Kindergarten, but they are required to attend the Jewish Experience Center from 4th grade until 7th grade in order to properly prepare for the B’nai Mitzvah.
During their time in the JEC, our students attend weekly tefilla (services) where they begin to learn the prayers. They also have Hebrew and Judaica classes weekly which help them to learn not only the Hebrew language, but also the Jewish traditions surrounding prayer, holidays, Israel, and Torah.
We all participate in Shabbat services, as well as, offer sessions in everything from discussing the Torah portions each child will have, to speaking with our in-house caterer to learn about planning the party, to everything in between.
Seven months prior to the B’nai Mitzvah date, our students begin their studies with Cantor Frenkel and their B’nai Mitzvah tutor. Then, students study once a week with their assigned B’nai Mitzvah tutor, reviewing their prayers and learning their individual Torah portions. Tutoring and meetings continue as we prepare the student for their big day.
Rabbi Bernstein or Rabbi Sher will officiate each B'nai Mitzvah throughout the year. Approximately three months prior to the date of the service each family will meet together with the officiating rabbi for a spiritual and educational orientation to the meaning of B'nai Mitzvah. Following the family meeting, the Rabbis meet individually with each child leading up to the service to help them create their B'nai Mitzvah speeches.
If you are interested in having a B’nai Mitzvah with KI or have questions about our process, please contact Keith Belinfante-Burns, B’nai Mitzvah Coordinator at kbburns@ourki.org or 424.214.7466 to discuss possible dates and any other questions or concerns you may have.
We welcome new members and would be thrilled to celebrate this rite of passage with you and your family.